Casper, Wyoming – Two locally owned businesses that have served the community for several years will close their doors permanently this week. The closures affect both a popular pizza restaurant and a well‑known vintage‑clothing retailer, highlighting the challenges small entrepreneurs face in today’s market.
Benny Montanaro’s Pizza Ends Operations
Benny Montanaro’s Pizza, known for its oversized New York‑style pies and generous slices, held its final day of service on Saturday night. Co‑owner Jerry Komma confirmed the permanent shutdown in an email to the press, declining to provide further details about the decision.
The franchise opened in late 2021 in the Plaza East shopping center at the intersection of 2nd Street and Thelma Drive. Jerry and his son Travis built the restaurant around a family‑friendly atmosphere, offering large‑portion meals that quickly became a staple for students, families, and workers in the area.
While the exact reasons for the closure were not disclosed, the loss of Benny Montanaro’s removes a familiar dining option from the Plaza East corridor, a location that has seen several new businesses open and close over the past few years.
GiGi’s on 2nd Announces Final Sale and Retirement
Vintage and consignment clothing store GiGi’s on 2nd will also cease operations at the end of this week. Owner Jody Sauers posted a notice on social media indicating that the store will discount remaining inventory by up to 50 percent before closing permanently on Saturday, August 29.
“Thank you again from the bottom of my heart,” Sauers wrote to her customers. “It has been an amazing run, and I am grateful for each and every one of you.” She added that she plans to retire but may explore pop‑up events or online sales in the future.
GiGi’s, which specializes in unique vintage and gently used clothing, was profiled by Oil City News in late 2025. The shop occupies an iconic building originally constructed as a railroad magistrate’s house in the early 1900s. The structure received a remodel and expansion in 1978 before being converted to retail space.
The impending closure marks the end of a distinctive shopping destination that attracted both longtime residents and visitors seeking one‑of‑a‑kind apparel.
Impact on the Casper Community
Both closures underscore the volatility of the small‑business landscape in Casper. While the city continues to grow, local entrepreneurs must navigate rising operating costs, shifting consumer habits, and competition from larger chains. Community members have expressed appreciation for the years of service provided by Benny Montanaro’s Pizza and GiGi’s on 2nd, noting the personal connections forged with owners and staff.
Local leaders have not announced any immediate plans to fill the vacant spaces, but the Plaza East shopping center and the historic building on 2nd Street remain prime locations for future ventures. Residents are encouraged to support remaining small businesses in the area as the local economy adapts to these changes.
For those interested in purchasing remaining inventory from GiGi’s, the discount sale will run through Saturday, August 29. Benny Montanaro’s Pizza will no longer accept orders after its final night of service.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
